What to eat and drink in South America?
25 July 2024
It is often said that we don’t really know a country only once you have tasted his cuisine. In Latin America, every region and every city brings its own touch to an already richly varied culinary palette. As a result, each destination is an invitation to discover new flavors. Today we explore the immense and diverse cuisine of South America, from Buenos Aires has Lima Passing by Sao Paulo And Mexico. Let’s go!
The variety of food systems in South America
Among the unique experiences that Latin America has to offer, its gastronomy stands out. Each country has developed its own culinary style, influenced by its history, geography and cultural traditions. Whether you are in the Argentinian capital or a small Peruvian village, food is at the center of daily life.
In Argentina, for example, the meat plays a central role. The country is famous for its beef, often served as a barbecue, or “asado”. In Bolivia and Peru, potatoes are a must, with hundreds of varieties grown in these countries. In Mexico, tacos, enchiladas and guacamole are ubiquitous, while in Brazil, feijoada, a black bean and pork stew, is a national dish.
Culinary journey: from Mexico to Buenos Aires
If you start your culinary journey in Latin America with Mexico, prepare yourself for an explosion of flavors. Mexican cuisine is a vibrant blend of indigenous and Spanish traditions, with dishes like tacos al pastor, chiles en nogada, and tamales. In addition to food street food, you will also find a growing high-end culinary scene, with restaurants like Pujol and Quintonil who have been ranked among the best in the world.
Going south, you arrive in Argentina, where the meat is queen. Taste a traditional asado in a “parrilla” in Buenos Aires, accompanied by a natural wine local. Also don’t miss tasting “dulce de leche”, a dessert made with caramelized milk.
Discover the culinary specialties of Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador
THE Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador offer equally impressive culinary diversity. In these countries, the influence of indigenous peoples is very present. In particular, the potatoes, quinoa and corn are staple foods.
In Peru, don’t miss ceviche, a dish of raw fish marinated in lemon juice. Bolivia is famous for its salteña, a kind of turnover stuffed with meat or vegetables. In Ecuador, try locro de papa, a creamy potato soup.
In these country, you will also find a wide variety of fruits exotic, often consumed in the form of juice.
Refresh yourself with traditional Latin American drinks
If South American food is a festival for the taste buds, the drinks are not left out. Either it’s about the water fresh coconut in Costa Rica, craft beer in Mexico, wine in Argentina or caipirinha in Brazil, you will not lack choices to quench your thirst.
In Peru and Bolivia, coca water is consumed to help combat the effects of altitude. In Mexico, mezcal, an alcoholic drink distilled from agave, is a specialty not to be missed. In Argentina, mate, an herbal infusion, is a real institution.
South America is a continent of diversity and contrasts, and this is reflected in its cuisine. Of the meat grilled Argentinian with fruits from the exotics of Ecuador to the spicy dishes of Mexico, each destination offers a new opportunity to discover new flavors. So, are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to South America? Bon appetit and bon voyage!
